D.C. United to Make ‘Saves for Southgate’ Friday

When D.C. United plays Real Salt Lake Friday night, one local group of fans will be watching closely: youth players at Reston’s Southgate Community Center.

D.C. United will donate $500 of soccer equipment to Southgate for every save the team’s goalie, Bill Hamid, makes in the match.

Southgate Director Richard Cabellos said the players at Southgate’s intramural program could really use new gear, including balls, nets, goals and shin guards.

“There is a huge disparity in our community with kids who cannot afford to play in expensive soccer leagues,” he said. “This will definitely help out with new materials and some cool stuff.”

The donation is part of “Every Save Makes A Difference,” a program established by MLS WORKS, Allstate and Univision Deportes  to benefit Hispanic community groups in Major League Soccer markets.

D.C. United’s Community Relations Coordinator Amanda Ortega says Southgate was chosen because of its commitment to the community and its large Latino population.

“Soccer is huge here at Southgate,” said Cabellos. “Not only is it a game that many of the kids and teens in the Reston area enjoy; but it’s also a means of bringing our diverse youth population together to develop the physical, mental and social skills that will help them achieve their potential.”

Cabellos said the youths are also looking forward to a visit from D.C. United players, who will drop by Southgate to deliver the equipment next week.